Geraldton-based YouthCARE chaplain Beverley Hanrahan named regional chaplain of the year at Governor’s Awards

Geraldton-based YouthCARE chaplain Beverley Hanrahan has been named regional chaplain of the year at the Governor’s Chaplaincy Awards, recognised for her outstanding service to schools and school leaders across the Mid West. Ms Hanrahan serves Holland Street School and Geraldton Primary School as a school chaplain and travels long distances to support principals across 46 regional and remote schools through the YouthCARE principals chaplaincy program. Her work offers critical face-to-face support to leaders in isolated communities where principals often act as first-responders to crises. “There is so much pressure on principals. I hear some amazing stories from principals, but I also hear the heartbreak,” Ms Hanrahan said. “It is really important for them to have a confidential, independent person to speak to.” Ms Hanrahan has been a YouthCARE chaplain for four years and a principals chaplain since 2024. Known for her calm, compassionate approach, she provides trauma-informed and culturally sensitive care to educators who face some of the most challenging circumstances in the State. Her recognition came as part of YouthCARE’s success at the Governor’s Chaplaincy Awards at Government House, where the organisation won four of eight awards for its contribution to metro and regional communities across WA. YouthCARE CEO Tamsyn Cullingford said the awards showcased the far-reaching impact of chaplaincy. “Chaplains are highly skilled, qualified and work across a number of areas including provision of crisis service and in regional areas where communities are affected by isolation,” she said. “Their contribution cannot go unnoticed, but these awards allow us to shine a light on the impactful work they do.” Funding for the Principals Chaplaincy Program has been extended until the end of 2025, though its future beyond that remains uncertain — a concern for the many regional schools that rely on chaplains for vital and independent support.